“Thanks, Mr. Starleigh, and I won’t forget what you’ve done for me,” returned Bob.
Bob had received full instructions from the railroad superintendent as to what sort of pictures were desired. He was to go along the entire length of the road, and the original order for thirty pictures had been increased to fifty, to include sections of the roadbed, bridges, and views of the scenery on the route and in the vicinity.
“And do your best, Bob,” said Grace Maverick.
“You can take my word I will,” replied the youth. “And if you will allow me, I will occasionally send you a few private pictures, taken by the way.”
“Oh, that will be delightful!”
He shook her hand. The extra squeeze he gave it was returned, and both blushed. Then he turned to Mr. Maverick, bade him good-by, and drove off.
Bob the Photographer had started on his first travelling tour. Little did he dream of the many adventures and perils he was to encounter before he returned to Stampton.
The horse that had been presented to him was a good one, and he started off at a lively gait. The wagon moved along easily, and Bob, seated up in front, whip in hand, felt in the best of spirits.
His first stop was to be at a place called Dartinville, a small town, situated on the mountain side. It was a great place for summer boarders, all of whom had to come by way of the T. W. & L. Railroad.
The road to Dartinville ran along the side of a narrow but deep creek. It was rather a rough road, with the mountains directly back of it.